How to Run Instagram Ads for Musicians (Part 3)

We've reached the third part of our four-part guide to Instagram growth - How to Run Instagram Ads for Musicians!

Let's first recall some crucial facts...Instagram is a goldmine for musicians looking to grow their fanbase, boost streams, and even make money. But simply posting content isn’t enough - you need to get your music in front of the right people. That’s where Instagram ads come in.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to run Instagram ads for musicians, what works best, and how you can maximize your results without burning through your budget.

Why Should Musicians Use Instagram Ads?

Instagram has over 2 billion active users, and with its visual-first approach, it’s a perfect platform for musicians. Here’s why ads can be a game-changer:

• Targeted Reach – Show your music to people who actually like your genre.

• Boost Streams & Followers – Drive listeners to your Spotify, Apple Music, or Instagram page.

• Increase Engagement – Get more likes, shares, and saves from the right audience.

• Direct Monetization – Promote your merch, tickets, or exclusive content.

What Type of Instagram Ad is Most Effective for Musicians?

Not all Instagram ads perform equally, so let’s break down the best types for musicians:

1. Reels Ads 🎬

• The best format for music discovery.

• Short, engaging, and designed for virality.

• Use a trending sound (or your own track) to maximize reach.

2. Story Ads 📱

• Full-screen, immersive, and great for quick promotions.

• Best for directing traffic to streaming platforms or ticket sales.

• Add a Swipe Up (or link sticker) to send fans to your music.

3. Feed Video Ads 🎵

• Works well for music video snippets or performance clips.

• Shows up in users' regular scrolling experience.

• Keep it under 30 seconds and make the first few seconds count!

4. Carousel Ads 🔄

• Great for storytelling, album previews, or merch drops.

• Lets you showcase multiple clips, images, or behind-the-scenes content.

5. Engagement/Boosted Posts ❤️

• If a post is performing well organically, boost it to expand its reach.

• Helps grow awareness without a full ad campaign setup.

How to Set Up Instagram (Meta) Ads for Music 🚀

Step 1: Create a Meta Ads Account

• Go to Meta Ads Manager .

• Link your Instagram account to your Meta Business Suite.

Step 2: Choose the Right Campaign Objective

Instagram offers several objectives, but musicians should focus on:

• Traffic – Send users to Spotify, YouTube, or your website.

• Engagement – Get more likes, comments, and shares.

• Conversions – Sell merch, tickets, or fan memberships.

• Video Views – Increase plays on music videos or performance clips.

Step 3: Define Your Audience 🎯

• Lookalike Audience – Find people similar to your current fans.

• Interest Targeting – Target users who follow similar artists.

• Custom Audience – Retarget website visitors, email subscribers, or past listeners.

• Location – Target cities or countries where your genre is popular.

Step 4: Create Scroll-Stopping Ad Content 🎥

• Use high-quality visuals (avoid blurry or pixelated images).

• Keep videos short and engaging (5-15 seconds works best).

• Add captions—most users watch without sound.

• Include a clear call to action (CTA) like “Listen Now” or “Swipe Up.”

Step 5: Set Your Budget & Run the Ad 💰

• Start small ($5-$10/day) and test different creatives.

• Use A/B testing to compare different videos, captions, or targeting.

• Monitor performance in Meta Ads Manager and tweak accordingly.

Can Musicians Make Money on Instagram?

Yes! Here’s how Instagram can be a direct revenue stream for musicians:

• Instagram Subscriptions – Offer exclusive content to paying subscribers.

• Merch Sales – Use Instagram Shopping to sell directly from your page.

• Live Badges – Earn money when fans tip you during live streams.

• Brand Partnerships – Collaborate with brands for sponsored content.

• Affiliate Marketing – Promote music gear or products and earn commissions.

Do Instagram Ads Work for Artists? 

Yes, but only if done correctly. To succeed:

✅ Target the right audience

✅ Use high-quality visuals

✅ Test different ad formats

✅ Optimize based on performance

✅ Be consistent - one ad won’t make you famous overnight

How Do Musicians Get Verified on Instagram? 

Verification helps build credibility. To apply:

1. Go to Settings > Account > Request Verification.

2. Provide an ID and links proving your music presence.

3. Make sure you have press features, an active fanbase, and a unique brand.

Final Thoughts: Is Instagram Worth It for Musicians? 🎶

100%! Instagram ads are one of the best ways to grow your audience, boost streams, and even make money. Start small, refine your strategy, and watch your music reach the right people.

Ready to get started? Set up your first ad today and take control of your music career!

👉 Check out  Pitch-Us Instagram Growth Services  and start scaling your music career today!

FAQ

Can you run lead ads on Instagram?

Yes! Musicians can use lead ads to collect emails for fan newsletters, early ticket access, or exclusive content.

Do Facebook ads work for musicians?

Absolutely. Since Instagram ads run through Meta, you can use Facebook ads to reach an even bigger audience.

How do I distribute my music on Instagram?

Upload your tracks via distributors like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby, and your songs will be available for Instagram Stories and Reels.